By Maureen Post Special to OnMilwaukee.com Published Dec 11, 2009 at 1:57 PM
What began on a national level has triggered several Milwaukee photographers to jump into full gear and set up "Help-Portrait MKE" this Saturday.

In conjunction with photographers all over the country, Milwaukee photographers will be shooting family portraits for local families in need. Just in time for the holidays, families and individuals can stop in to have their portrait taken and receive a free 8 x 10 in. print to take home.

"A portrait is something that can change someone’s day, week, month or year. Being able to see one’s self in a great portrait improves one’s self-esteem. Some of the people that will be participating are either homeless, in a shelter or in a time of need. We want to be able to give them a reason to smile and see themselves in a new light," photographer and event organizer Rob Gustafson says.

The concept was started by celebrity Photographer Jeremy Cowart, spawning similar photo shoots to occur in every major American city tomorrow.

Interested in helping? Volunteers are always needed to assist photographers and supplies like photographic ink, paper, canned goods and bottled water are greatly appreciated.

The event is held Saturday, Dec. 12 at 3707 N. Richards St., Studio 203 starting at 9 a.m.
Maureen Post Special to OnMilwaukee.com

OnMilwaukee.com staff writer Maureen Post grew up in Wauwatosa. A lover of international and urban culture, Maureen received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

After living on the east side of Madison for several years, Maureen returned to Milwaukee in 2006.

After a brief stint of travel, Maureen joined OnMilwaukee.com as the city’s oldest intern and has been hooked ever since. Combining her three key infatuations, Milwaukee’s great music, incredible food and inspiring art (and yes, in that order), Maureen’s job just about fits her perfectly.

Residing in Bay View, Maureen vehemently believes the city can become fresh and new with a simple move across town.